The Best Real Wood Cat Trees For Scratching, Play, And Relaxation

The Best Real Wood Cat Trees For Scratching, Play, And Relaxation

Cat trees are like a mini playground for your feline; serving up a place to scratch, climb, and observe their kingdoms, real wood cat trees are a stylish way to treat your kitty-cat.

By Molly Wolfe April 02, 2023

When it comes to choosing the best cat tree, real wood is a solid option—in all senses. Wood is sturdy, reliable, and long-lasting, and of course, these are all characteristics you want from your new cat tree. Spending a little more to find the best quality wood makes a world of difference, ensuring you won’t find yourself splashing out for a new cat tree sooner than you expected. It’ll withstand your cats’ rough-and-tumble play, jumping, and scratches; not to mention, a real wood cat tree offers heaps of chic style to your space, showing your guests you only pick the best. So, if you’re replacing your old cat tree or jungle gym, or buying one for the first time, we’ve got you covered with the best real wood cat trees here. Read on and check them out—we’ve got options for all styles and budgets.

awardImageUrl

Top Pick Wooden Cat Tree Tower

Celes 42'' Cat Tree Real Branch Luxury Tower

Best Real Wood Cat Tree to Consider

Type of Wood

With plywood and MDF on the cheaper end and maple and cedar on the fancier end of the spectrum, there are heaps of wood types available for your cat tree. In short, it comes down to what you’re willing to spend: maple and cedar are both strong, durable, and attractive options, while MDF will give you plenty of bang for your buck but may not last as long. Be aware that pine wood can be toxic to cats, so avoid this at all costs.

Size

Cat trees come in an endless number of sizes, and the best size for you varies on a) how many cats you have and b) your available space. Our rule of thumb is to ensure your cat tree has (at least) one sleeping spot or platform per cat plus a scratching post for those talons.

Budget

You can spend as much or as little as you like on a good cat tree, with options starting from under $100 and going all the way up to $300 to $400. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for, and the price will usually reflect the durability and quality of the wood. We’ve included a variety of options in our guide, so you should be able to find the best cat tree within your budget.

Extra Features

When it comes to cat trees, you can go for a simple design or pick one with all the bells and whistles. By this, we mean hanging toys, cat condos for cozy naps, and extra-plush covers and cushions. If you’re trying out a cat tree for the first time, you can start with a more basic option and invest in something more elaborate when you know your cats have taken to it.

Wooden Cat Tree Tower

By Tucker Murphy, this cat tree is beautifully crafted with a natural tree branch. So, you’ll get a charmingly rustic piece of home decor alongside offering your cat a comfy place to snooze. It’s got three levels, not including the base which features a cozy cat condo they can hide away in. Covered with plush faux fur, your cat won’t know what they did to deserve this awesome new play and nap area, that’s for sure. There’s even a cheeky hanging cat toy to play with when your feline gets bored of napping.

Top Pick
Celes 42'' Cat Tree Real Branch Luxury Tower

Celes 42'' Cat Tree Real Branch Luxury Tower

$199.00

Buy on Wayfair

Pros:

  • Real wood with unique branch design
  • 3 platforms with a bottom cat condo for naps
  • Hanging toy
  • Great quality

Cons:

  • Can’t replace parts

Armarkat Real Wood Cat Tree

Bursting with plenty of platforms and a cubbyhole for your cat to explore, this large wooden cat tree offers plenty of scope for peaceful naps and entertaining playtime. Suitable for 2 to 3 cats, this multi-level cat tree measures up at a substantial 78 inches, so your cats can enjoy a nice view of their space from up high, too.

We particularly like the upper cat bed and hanging ball toy, giving your cats comfy spots to snooze, while encouraging them to stay active by making the climb to bat that toy. There are several sisal-covered scratching posts to tempt them away from your couch, too.

Runner Up
78" Premium Classic Real Wood Jackson Galaxy Approved Cat Tree

78" Premium Classic Real Wood Jackson Galaxy Approved Cat Tree

$235.00

Buy on Wayfair

Pros:

  • Large enough for a few cats or kittens
  • 6 levels in total
  • Hanging toy
  • Built-in cubbyhole
  • Reasonable price tag for the size

Cons:

  • Not the most stylish

Tucker Murphy Wood Cat Tree

Cheap yet nicely stylish, this real wood cat tree is a great addition to your living space, and one that your cats are sure to fall head over heels for. Boasting five levels in total (including the base), this cat tree provides lots of vertical space for your cats to jump, climb, and explore. In fact, it measures up at a towering 51 inches, which offers plenty of scope to stretch and jump.

We love the plush cubbyhole, supplying a cozy spot to get some shut-eye. And, finished with those all-important hanging toys and plenty of sisal-covered scratching posts, you can deter your cats from scratching the living daylights out of your furniture, too.

Best Value
Sievers Cat Tree

Sievers Cat Tree

$63.99

Buy on Wayfair

Pros:

  • 51 inches tall
  • 5 levels in total
  • Cute details
  • Well-made and sturdy
  • Lots of sisal posts

Cons:

  • Best for max 1 or 2 cats

FEANDREA 33.9-Inch MDF Wood Cat Tower

Super stylish and a welcome addition to any thoughtfully-designed interior, this cat tree adds to your home’s aesthetic rather than detracting from it. The high-quality Scottish pinewood looks fresh, rich and rustic, and the gorgeously light shades make this cat tree a real show-stopper.

The second level features a cozy cubbyhole for your cat to retreat, while the top level allows them to observe their kingdom (i.e., the living room). This wooden cat tree pretty much has it all, and you can pick it up for an affordable price, too.

Most Stylish
54" Premium Real Wood Scots Pine Cat Tree

54" Premium Real Wood Scots Pine Cat Tree

$245.00

Buy on Wayfair

Pros:

  • Made with real Scottish pine
  • Rustic look
  • Cozy cubbyhole
  • Great for a single cat

Cons:

  • Not a lot of padding here

Prestige Real Wood Cat Tree

Totally covered in soft faux fur and sisal rope to ensure no sharp edges, this Archie & Oscar cat tree is also crafted from sturdy MDF wood to give it a stable feel and a long lifespan. With five levels, including the base, this 43-inch cat tree is spacious enough for multiple kitties to jump, sleep, and play about. Plus, the sisal scratching post means they can sharpen their claws without destroying your armchairs, which is great news for everyone.

This is definitely one of the sturdier options in our guide, yet the price remains nice and affordable; not to mention, you won’t find yourself replacing it anytime soon. We particularly like the calming green and brown color scheme, which will meld seamlessly with all sorts of interior styles.

Also Consider
43" Timms Cat Tree

43" Timms Cat Tree

$107.99

Buy on Wayfair

Pros:

  • Covered in faux fur and sisal
  • Plenty of levels
  • Highly sturdy
  • Large enough for multiple cats
  • 43 inches high
  • Anti-skid base

Cons:

  • No cons here

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a wooden cat tree better?

While smaller cats and kittens can get away with a flimsier cat tree, larger and fully-grown adult cats will fare much better with a real wood cat tree. This is because wooden cat trees offer far more stability, durability, and s sturdier base on which to jump, play, and scratch.

What wood is best for cat trees?

Oak, maple, and cedar are the best wood types for cat trees. Sure, they cost a little more than your standard MDF, but they feel far sturdier and are sure to last you for years to come.

Do cats like wooden cat trees?

Cats love cat trees of all types (though wood is certainly the preferred material). Cat trees offer your feline space to jump, play, and scratch, which not only keeps them happy and active, but also saves your furniture from snags and cat-inflicted damage, too.

How do you clean a wooden cat tree?

It’s quick and easy to clean your cat tree, and you should aim to do this every few weeks or so to keep it hygienic for your kitty. First of all, use warm water and soap (not bleach) to wipe down the wooden surfaces. Next, grab a vacuum and use the brush attachment to get rid of any cat hair, dust, and dirt. If your cat tree has removable covers, you can throw these in the laundry, too.

Why are cat trees important?

Cat trees are a fantastic tool for indoor and outdoor cats alike. They provide platforms, resting spots, and a scratching post all-in-one, making a personal playground and chill-out area just for your feline. Cats love to be up high—this is part of their natural instincts to have a good view of their surroundings—so, having a cat tree at home facilitates their yearning to get up and scout the area.

WHY TRUST US

Since 2008, Cattime has served as a leading resource for millions of cat owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every cat and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pet a breeze.

See The Latest Articles From Cattime Editors

Encourage An Active Lifestyle With The Best Cat Jungle Gyms
Encourage An Active Lifestyle With The Best Cat Jungle Gyms

As cat owners, we all want to provide the best possible environment for our feline friends. And what better way to do that than by giving them a playground of their own? Enter the cat jungle gym (also known as cat trees or cat condos): a must-have for any cat parent looking to keep their furry buddy happy and active. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your cat? Our guide is here to help. We’ve handpicked options for all budgets, taking into consideration size, quality, materials, and durability, so you can make an informed decision that both you and your cat will love. Whether you’re looking for a simple scratching post or a multi-level jungle gym complete with tunnels and perches, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect cat jungle gym for your feline friend here in our ultimate guide:

Save Space With the Best Collapsible Cat Carrier Available Online
Save Space With the Best Collapsible Cat Carrier Available Online

As a cat owner, you know how daunting it can be to find the perfect carrier for your feline friend. Luckily, collapsible cat carriers have become all the rage in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they super convenient for traveling with your cat, but they’re also incredibly space-saving and easy to store when not in use. In this handy guide, we’ll be exploring the best collapsible cat carriers on the market, focusing on features like durability, comfort, and ease of use. We’ll also delve into the benefits of collapsible carriers, such as their ability to save space in your home and make storage an absolute breeze. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with your furry companion or simply looking for a carrier that won’t take up too much precious real estate in your home, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Interactive Cat Toys To Help You Bond With your Feline
The Best Interactive Cat Toys To Help You Bond With your Feline

Play is just as important as food and rest. So, picking up the right toys for your cat is crucial to their well-being. Interactive cat toys offer a fun, engaging, and stimulating activity for your kitty, and, depending on the type, can be used either with you or on their own. Yep, while you’re out at work all day, your cat should have some funky cat toys to get playful with! From classic favorites like hanging ball toys through to energetic toys that’ll help keep them fit and active, we’ve got a great selection of the best interactive cat toys right here in our guide:

The Best Cat Scratching Board To Keep Those Claws Tip-Top
The Best Cat Scratching Board To Keep Those Claws Tip-Top

Did you know the best way to deter your kitties from scratching your couch to death? The answer is simple: a great cat scratching board. With one of these beauties, your cat will have a ready-to-go spot to scratch their claws, saving your couch and other upholstery from the perils of sharp talons. These boards are essentially flat boards covered in cardboard or sisal fabric—similar to sisal rope, which is commonly wrapped around scratching posts and cat trees. You can pick one up for anywhere between $20 to $80 (and sometimes beyond), so there’s sure to be a scratching board out there to suit your budget. We’ve handpicked our favorites from some of the top online stores to help you shop wisely. Read on and check them out:

The Best Cat Backpacks For Toting Your Furry Friend In Style
The Best Cat Backpacks For Toting Your Furry Friend In Style

Now, we’re sure as soon as we say “cat backpacks”, some of you conjure up images of Paris Hilton-esque tiny handbags stuffed with a purebred—and very squashed—kitty cat. Well, no; that’s frankly inhumane. On the contrary, a great cat backpack can actually be a spacious, comfortable, and highly-effective way of toting your cat about, whether you travel with your pet or you need to take her to the vet. Doing just what they say on the tin, these cat carriers are worn on your back, distributing the weight afr more evenly and making carrying your kitty much, much easier. So, save the hefty lugging (and accompanying hand-ache!) and pick up one of the best cat backpacks from our guide, here:

The 5 Best Mid Century Modern Cat Trees For Stylish Felines
The 5 Best Mid Century Modern Cat Trees For Stylish Felines

Though our common domesticated cats are a little smaller than the wild, jungle-born-and-raised felines of old, they certainly love to flaunt their acrobatic flair by exploring up above. And luckily, if they stray too far, we know that they’ll always land on their feet. Cat trees offer indoor cats a stomping ground of their own, with plenty of feline-friendly treats like scratching posts, engaging cat toys, and soft cushions to enjoy along the way. If you’re looking for a design that will blend with contemporary interior designs, these sleek mid-century modern designs are sure to add to the vibe indoors.

The Best Cat Tower To Let Your Feline Observe Their Kingdom In Comfort
The Best Cat Tower To Let Your Feline Observe Their Kingdom In Comfort

Cat towers are the creme de la creme of cat accessories. Giving your cat a literal platform from which to observe their surroundings (i.e., their kingdom), your feline will love nothing more than scampering up that tower and perching on top. Cat towers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so it’s super easy to find one to fit your space. Plus, they’re great for those with limited floor space, since they’re largely vertical with a comparatively small footprint. Most towers come with sisal rope scratching posts for your cat to sharpen their talons on, which will encourage them to lay off of your couch and armchair for once. All in all, a sturdy tower is the ultimate treat for your cat—and we’re quite sure that if they could thank you for it, they would. So, pick up the best cat tower from our guide today; we’ve got options for all budgets and tastes, so pick your favorite from our selection.

The Best Real Wood Cat Trees For Scratching, Play, And Relaxation
The Best Real Wood Cat Trees For Scratching, Play, And Relaxation

When it comes to choosing the best cat tree, real wood is a solid option—in all senses. Wood is sturdy, reliable, and long-lasting, and of course, these are all characteristics you want from your new cat tree. Spending a little more to find the best quality wood makes a world of difference, ensuring you won’t find yourself splashing out for a new cat tree sooner than you expected. It’ll withstand your cats’ rough-and-tumble play, jumping, and scratches; not to mention, a real wood cat tree offers heaps of chic style to your space, showing your guests you only pick the best. So, if you’re replacing your old cat tree or jungle gym, or buying one for the first time, we’ve got you covered with the best real wood cat trees here. Read on and check them out—we’ve got options for all styles and budgets.

The Best Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats
The Best Litter Boxes for Multiple Cats

If you’re lucky enough to have a troupe of kitties who call your house their home, you need to have the right setup to cater to their needs. This ranges from having enough cat bowls to go around, a great supply of yummy cat food, and of course, their potty situation. Yep, while in an ideal world, each cat would have their own litter box, sometimes this just isn’t possible; after all, not all of us have an entire room to dedicate to their kitties’ business, and several cat litter boxes can take up considerable floor space. Thankfully, you can pick up litter boxes for multiple cats, designed to offer space for all of your felines. We’ve rustled up a guide to the top picks here to help you shop.

The Best Disguised Cat Litter Boxes To Streamline Your Interiors
The Best Disguised Cat Litter Boxes To Streamline Your Interiors

Are you tired of seeing that unsightly litter box in the corner of your living room? Do you wish there was a way to keep your feline friend’s business hidden from view? We thought so. Disguised cat litter boxes are the perfect way to keep your home looking stylish and clean while still providing a comfortable space for your furry friend to do their business. Gone are the days of bulky, plastic litter boxes that clash with your decor. With the many options available today, you can find a disguised litter box that fits your style and seamlessly blends into your home. From sleek and modern designs to charming, rustic options, there’s something for every taste. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for you and your cat? In this article, we’ll explore the different types of disguised cat litter boxes and provide some helpful tips to guide you in your purchase. Say goodbye to the eyesore litter box and hello to a stylish, discreet solution.

Encourage An Active Lifestyle With The Best Cat Jungle Gyms
Encourage An Active Lifestyle With The Best Cat Jungle Gyms

As cat owners, we all want to provide the best possible environment for our feline friends. And what better way to do that than by giving them a playground of their own? Enter the cat jungle gym (also known as cat trees or cat condos): a must-have for any cat parent looking to keep their furry buddy happy and active. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your cat? Our guide is here to help. We’ve handpicked options for all budgets, taking into consideration size, quality, materials, and durability, so you can make an informed decision that both you and your cat will love. Whether you’re looking for a simple scratching post or a multi-level jungle gym complete with tunnels and perches, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect cat jungle gym for your feline friend here in our ultimate guide:

Save Space With the Best Collapsible Cat Carrier Available Online
Save Space With the Best Collapsible Cat Carrier Available Online

As a cat owner, you know how daunting it can be to find the perfect carrier for your feline friend. Luckily, collapsible cat carriers have become all the rage in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they super convenient for traveling with your cat, but they’re also incredibly space-saving and easy to store when not in use. In this handy guide, we’ll be exploring the best collapsible cat carriers on the market, focusing on features like durability, comfort, and ease of use. We’ll also delve into the benefits of collapsible carriers, such as their ability to save space in your home and make storage an absolute breeze. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with your furry companion or simply looking for a carrier that won’t take up too much precious real estate in your home, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Interactive Cat Toys To Help You Bond With your Feline
The Best Interactive Cat Toys To Help You Bond With your Feline

Play is just as important as food and rest. So, picking up the right toys for your cat is crucial to their well-being. Interactive cat toys offer a fun, engaging, and stimulating activity for your kitty, and, depending on the type, can be used either with you or on their own. Yep, while you’re out at work all day, your cat should have some funky cat toys to get playful with! From classic favorites like hanging ball toys through to energetic toys that’ll help keep them fit and active, we’ve got a great selection of the best interactive cat toys right here in our guide:

The Best Cat Scratching Board To Keep Those Claws Tip-Top
The Best Cat Scratching Board To Keep Those Claws Tip-Top

Did you know the best way to deter your kitties from scratching your couch to death? The answer is simple: a great cat scratching board. With one of these beauties, your cat will have a ready-to-go spot to scratch their claws, saving your couch and other upholstery from the perils of sharp talons. These boards are essentially flat boards covered in cardboard or sisal fabric—similar to sisal rope, which is commonly wrapped around scratching posts and cat trees. You can pick one up for anywhere between $20 to $80 (and sometimes beyond), so there’s sure to be a scratching board out there to suit your budget. We’ve handpicked our favorites from some of the top online stores to help you shop wisely. Read on and check them out:

The Best Cat Backpacks For Toting Your Furry Friend In Style
The Best Cat Backpacks For Toting Your Furry Friend In Style

Now, we’re sure as soon as we say “cat backpacks”, some of you conjure up images of Paris Hilton-esque tiny handbags stuffed with a purebred—and very squashed—kitty cat. Well, no; that’s frankly inhumane. On the contrary, a great cat backpack can actually be a spacious, comfortable, and highly-effective way of toting your cat about, whether you travel with your pet or you need to take her to the vet. Doing just what they say on the tin, these cat carriers are worn on your back, distributing the weight afr more evenly and making carrying your kitty much, much easier. So, save the hefty lugging (and accompanying hand-ache!) and pick up one of the best cat backpacks from our guide, here:

HAPPY PAWS FROM CATTIME

Top Searches On Cattime